(08 Sep 2013, 6:21 pm)Andreos1 wrote Ah the 638, hasn't been mentioned for a while.
As others have said, it was always busy, particularly on the Galleries - Sunderland section.
The fact that section still exists, is enough to tell me the demand is still there.
I remember the section between the Galleries and Low Fell wasn't that well used, however it still provided vital links for short hops. Unfortunately this section was never replaced - with passengers relying on what had been left after the cull in Washington and a number of services beyond Blackfell.
Beyond Low Fell, obviously the 69 still exists - but I can't comment on the 638 loadings.
Edit. I can vaguely remember that duplicate service. One was just a short run if I remember correctly though.
yes short run, I think the duplicate only started at fatfield area if im right, used to be in the 638 timetable but at the bottom saying additional service run from Fatfield to Sunderland, both 638 buses were jammed packed though. Im just trying to remember what the bus was used after it got into Parklane bus station.